Owned my XT for a month now and used it a few times. Very impressed, I tested the adventurous routing feature which I love. Impressed so far with the features, screen and wired it into my KTM 790 ADV R. The offroad trails that are not visible on my phone nav. apps. are all visible in the XT. For once I didn't get lost in the N. GA mountain trails! Very happy customer so far.
Just saw your video on the XT, and subbed , this morning. How are you liking the new KLX 300? I'm thinking about getting one. My V Strom 1000xt Adventure is great on the road and ok on smooth dirt, but it's no dirt bike.😉
I just bought mine today, but contrary to your review, for 2021 the UK/Europe pack now comes with the car and motorcycle automotive mounts and suction pad and 12 volt car charging/Power cable. The Micro SD card FOR THOSE INTERESTED is fitted by opening the rear rubber tab, the silver cover tab that retains the SD card is hinged at the outer side of that compartment. Carefully lift upward with finger nail or something non abrasive, to reveal space for the SD Card and then close. I am surprised Garmin not including that or the case.
I just picked up the XT a few weeks ago on sale. Love it. Much better than the 595. I have a Bluetooth receiver on my wing so can still hear music and turn by turn directions through the bikes sound system. The XT comes with a ton of free space so no need to add an SD card right away. Note if you have problems with music you’ve added not showing up, you need to fiddle with the mp3 metadata from the computer side. In other words, right click on file, properties, details, then make sure artist, album artist, album, and song title are all filled in for each song. The XT doesn’t care if you have songs in named folders, only about the file metadata.
Took mine on a 7200 MI trip around the US this summer and it functioned well usually. The most irritating problem was with traffic when it would sometimes report the interstate as being closed when in fact they weren't. This happened three or four times and every time I checked with Google maps there was no indication there that the highways were closed so we continued on that route with no problems. The other thing that was irritating was when deviating from a route there was no quick and easy way to cause it to recalculate using the roads that we were on. Sometimes it would take 30 minutes before it would calculate a new route so that every time there was a place to turn around or a road to turn off onto it would direct you to do so. I'd really like to see a simple gesture made available or button somewhere that would allow a quick recalc while you're moving. And then a couple of times when near the end of a route it would suddenly go crazy and start routing way out of the way so that instead of one mile you would have 5 MI to get to your destination. At first I thought this might have been a satellite geometry problem but since I was backing up the zumo with my phone I was able to see that the phone was locked on to the satellites perfectly and had the original route on it. Although this may seem overly negative I really do like the advice and wouldn't consider traveling without it.
I loved your first review and I bought my Zumo XT solely based on that review. I have no regrets and really love the device. It has maintained its signal and continued to give directions even at times when my cell phone lost coverage such as on a road trip back from Arizona to Philadelphia. I fully agreed that the display could be more Google maps like and one other thing I would change would be after you get your results I wish it gave you an overview of what the entire route would look like such as Google does. Overall I really do like the device. Thank you for your awesome and comprehensive reviews.
Very nice, clear review. I just bought my XT here in Brazil. It will be my companion to a long trip to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, on coming March 4th. Thanks a lot for the review. It surely deserves my subscription.
I just bought this GPS so I can mount it on my F 800GS, it's currently on sale for $399 on Garmin. Revzilla will also price match it (I bought if from them and they did). If anyone has been on the edge about buying it, I would say $100 off is a good reason to jump on it; I've been very impressed so far.
I switched to the XT 6 months ago from my BMW Nav 6 and it is an outstanding GPS. I mounted it in the Nav slot on my K1600 via an adapter I found. I’ve been on 2 multi day trips with it. 2 things: I pair my Sena 20S, iPhone and the XT and they have worked flawlessly - the first time I was able to achieve this. For Route planning I use MRA Routeplanner, which saves in .gpx format to load into my XT. thanks for the review!
Have owned an XT for about a year now. It is primarily used for adventure riding. My previous Zumo 550 was practically worthless off highway because even with back country routes up and running it was impossible to see the screen in the daylight. That is important when in the middle of nowhere you need to see if you are on course. Couple of months ago I purchased the Garmin Inreach emergency transponder and it links up with the XT automatically. Positioning the Inreach on your person is important, for example, because if you break a collar bone and the Inreach is on the side of the break it might be impossible to get to it to send an SOS. The XT provides another means of sending the SOS signal if it survived the crash giving you redundancy to alert people you need help. The Zumo XT is a game changer.
Thanks for the great information. Plus, I am thrilled to see another "older guy" that rides. I am 68, and my 89 year-old mother thinks I am too old to be riding a motorcycle. Nevermind that I have been riding since I was 10!
I love mine. Music, hands free, traffic, weather, tracking, phone, scenic routes, etc.... I went through 9 states on a western states trip and stayed off all major freeways. Super bright! Only thing that sucks is getting a second mount and wiring for second bike. There's no complete kit, and getting the power cables took 3 months to get in stock!
I went from a Zumo 550 with outdated maps to this. So far it has been fantastic, although I haven't done a lot with base camp yet. I primarily use my GPS for live navigation and not much for routing to destinations using base camp routes. This model is kinda nice for letting you know upcoming school zones, rail road crossings and reduced speeds ahead. In most locations it shows posted speed limits on the maps. The screen is the biggest plus. It is TFT and high definition. The field expands out 5.5 inches and is nice size for live navigation. One thing I was not aware of and it doesn't mention this on the web site is that unless you have blue tooth head set connected all of the phone features are disabled. Please correct me if I am wrong. I wanted to be able to get text messages and use the garmin drive ap through my phone but cannot unless I invest in a blue tooth head set.
I have had my ZUMO XT for a couple years now. I Love it.. it does everything I need it to. Only thing that when wrong with it was the Charging Port. The bottom connection became loose, and the GPS, started acting crazy. So I just ordered TWO extra power cords. Because I Love this GPS. The power cord is the only weak link in the system. You have to be extra careful with third little power connecters.
Can you tell me more about the power to the unit? Can I use the USB plug in the back and keep it powered to my snowmobile USB power outlet? Is the battery on the back necessary to install? Thanks
Based on your positive review I'm purchasing the Zumo XT. Took a long ride on the Smokey Mountains back roads over the weekend and the Honda GPS was very frustrating to use. I like that it also show telephone calls. Thanks for the review.
Great review. Returning to riding after 3 decades away, just got a Ducati DesertX and got this optional GPS installed before delivery. Really nice features. Carrollton is around two minutes away from where I live. 👍
Garmin smartphone link on your phone is indispensable when paired with any Garmin gps. Easily search for and send locations from pretty much any app or website to your gps. Works an absolute treat
An annoyance I have experienced occurs when running a route in reverse. If a planned route uses minor roads and intended detours, the reverse route the XT brings up uses the most direct option. Route planning is cumbersome, even in Basecamp, owing to the need to zoom in to see minor roads, then zoom out for an overall view. I have a fast PC with good graphics card and in spite of that zooming in and out is slow. As a result I tend to lose track of where I am in planning a route. However the XT enables my Schuberth helmet Bluetooth device to communicate with my phone (via the XT). Phone calls were not possible until I got the Zumo and it even brings up text messages while riding which is cool.
just would like let you know how much you have influenced me positivety and i just relly enjoy your videos i also purchased the zumo xt and im really enjoying it thanks to you cruisman
In the process of deciding what type of GPS to buy - this was a great review and comparison plus super educational about the mapping apps. Just from my experience with a PC, the older micro USB connectors that they have put on the XT are a lot more robust than USB-C connectors - the latter bend and come loose over time. I'm glad they went with the older connectors. Update - I bought one. Its very good and there is a little rubber thingy that covers the contacts but its not as robust as the one covering the contacts on the 595LM
Been using the XT for about 5 months, the screen is very bright but very reflective. Sometimes I only see the reflections of my jacket or?? BUT I found an anti-glare screen made to the size of the XT and it stopped the reflections. Still has the touch screen and brightness. Not sure I can give mfg name, but web search of XT anti glare screen protector and it starts with an NuS. Good review, lots of things to learn. Thanks
I am riding a Honda VF800x now for 75000 km. Had a Zumo 390 before which died this year, but brought me from Germany through Ireland planed on Basecamp last year without any problems. Knowing basecamp (not that easy) the XT was the apparent choice. I love the screen. Even in the brightest sunshine with sunvisor easy to read. The only thing that could be improved is the round trip option - you cannot set a distance and a target or direction at the same tame - routing is smart enough if you select a a roundtrip and just want to go the other way round. It is however not possible to make a roundtrip + a target + a defined number of km/mi. This would be really nice to have - say I want to ride a roundtrip - I want to stop there - and it should be xxx km/mi. Ride safe! Thomas
I upgraded from the 396 to the XT. While the 396 is a great GPS, the XT is so much better. It has a better response time. Putting in an address, while not the most ideal on the XT, is still better than it is on the 396. The only thing I like better on the 396 is the ability to connect with Garmin's Smartphone Link app, which allowed me to send a link to my wife so she could know where I was. Other than that feature, the XT is hands down a better GPS.
I tried to import the Arizona BDR tracks, but was unable to do so. I didn't have an installed micro SD card, in the ZUMO so I've ordered one hoping that will cure the problem. I'm an older guy and GARMIN ticks me off in 1)not supplying a written (paper) manual, and 2) not having humans available to call regarding product use! This is also true of marine and aviation electronic products. Nice review. I have enjoyed my ZUMO on my KTM.
Thanks Cruiseman. I'm coming off a Nuvi 3597 and I just got a XT for my upcoming coast 2 coast trip. I did have some trouble connecting to Basecamp. Turns out it was a Demo Cyclops POI included in the XT that was causing basecamp to crash. Once I deleted it...all OK.
I considered just using my phone - my old Zumo 550 was a good navigator, but nothing else on it was useable. If I put in an SD card - the music player would take well over 30 minutes to display even the first song. Well, the phone connection worked okay. It's now 12 years old and has seen better days (lots of UV deterioration). I've got a Garmin in the car that I use rather than the onboard nav - nobody does GPS as well as Garmin. This review was just one more nail in the coffin for the idea of mounting my phone on the bike (never really liked the idea). So I just ordered an XT (hoping the music player is better - although using my phone for that would be fine - it can do that from inside the tank bag.
You sold me. I was looking at it for riding the NMBDR this coming June. I was going to use my phone but I heard that the vibration on a motorcycle can destroy your camera ($1100 iPhone vs $500 GPS). I hated to spend that kind of money on a one-time use GPS because I don't think I'll ever have use for one normally because there's no place I go in NM that I need a map for. This looks like a great GPS but I wish I had a real good use for it to justify the cost. I'm not sure I'd even need it on the BDR as I have the Butler map for it and I know most of NM pretty well. But it sure has enticed me.
I really enjoy your reviews....clear, concise and pertinent. Nice Job. I have the 396 and absolutely hate the interface. Like you said, I wish it were more waze-like. also the touch screen response is abysmal. Would you say the XT is a big improvement over that model?
One downside to this Zumo compared with past models, it doesn't have a headphone jack / aux output. So on my older Harley touring bike that doesn't have bluetooth, but does have an aux input, I can no longer route the audio through my bike's audio system. There are workarounds for this, such as using a bluetooth receiver with aux output.
Wouldn’t be without my XT . It’s not perfect and I would definitely recommend it . I just wish garmin would make a secure lockable cradle as an option, although it is easy to take off and pop in jacket . Base camp sucks , not intuitive at all so I use a third party route planner , Scenic on my phone and export to the XT way better than basecamp . I can plan a route using Scenic at breakfast over coffee without a laptop etc and within a few minutes the route is exported to the XT . Like all these things you’ve got to check the route before hitting “go” as it may do something bizarre. 😂
I bought the 595LM after seeing your review on it, and haven't found the need or money to replace it. If I had to buy another GPS, the XT sounds like a good one to get.
I’ve always loved Garmin products and own many. I just purchased a 2021 Goldwing DCT Tour. I haven’t had time to familiarize myself with the factory GPS. Is the Goldwing GPS so crappy that it would behoove one to purchase an aftermarket one ?
Very good GPS !!! It reminds me the GPS I had on my K1600 Grand America. It is basically the same but with much better looking display and clarity. I have to say, for 500.00, I think I am pretty much happy with the built in GPS from Honda. And, if I want to be very picky with the route, I switch to Waze or Google. I never had one issue with routing to anywhere. Yes, Honda's could be a bit lazy and crazy entering info for routing, I can live with that.
Great review here. I learned a lot. I would really like to go down the tablet Android route BUT this GPS is making me think very seriously about whether that would be the best bet. Well done and thanks. Phil.
Thanks , great video, I learnt a lot from it, only just bought my XT , had a BMW’ nav 6 on my gsa , that was not good, and bought a WunderlinQ to use my iPhone, wasn’t bad but it wasn’t very safe either it dropped off at one point. So hence the XT , I have it wired in now but just waiting for the bike mount to arrive from the USA , but your video has help me to understand some of the workings. I do think that Garmin should do an instruction booklet in the pack. It’s ok to have it on line but but not everyone has a printer or even a computer. Thanks again. Graham.
Thank you for your review. I just ordered one this morning. I have just been using my cell for navigation but my wife and I were in the mountains and google failed to find a route back to our hotel on numerous occasions. I've never had Google maps fail to find a route before. Besides, I think it's time to keep my phone in my pocket.... not on the bike.
I have had one for several thousand miles (mostly offroad), a few things I have learned, the charging base will give problems, loading tracks is a major pain in the _____, buy a card and make sure you format it to your XT to load your tracks on, if you load them to the XT memory, they will give you trouble , it will not work trying t use the USB port to charge while riding...............
Great video Cruisman, thanks for this. Blowing taps for my Zumo550.....she's just about done. I subscribed w/notification and will return for the Garmin Way Points. Have you installed any matt screen protectors on yours or know anyone who has? That will cut the glare and keep the fingerprints down. You can get one for a smaller tablet and cut-to-fit. I did that for my Zumo550 and it worked well.
Great review Cruiseman…watching this more or less solidified the deal for me to purchase this product. I currently ride a 2018 Honda Goldwing DCT Tour but have a couple of questions… -How does the Zumo XT Bluetooth function work in conjunction with the various things associated with Apple CarPlay like music, phone calls, etc as well as the CB usage -Did you choose to hard wire the unit to the bike or do you use the battery pack? And was it a difficult process? Thanks in advance
Excellent review. How do you access the traffic feature on the map for the motorcycle as well as the car mount? It looks like Garmin lists a GTM 60 HD Digital Traffic Receiver cable which I believe is for the car mount. Do you use this cable with the car mount? What about the MC mount?
For a unit designed to be used out in the open with the elements, there does not appear to be a solution for rain sensitivity or a way to lock the screen?
My motorcycle Garmin Zumo XT wireless GPS after I update for the first time , what ever address I input or going to saved address says : "Cannot calculate the route" please HELP - How can I fix that?Thanks
I don't know if I missed it but did you mention how long Zumo XT can be used on the road by its internal battery alone as the power source. I wish in today's tech world they figure it out these devices can work on their batteries unto 12 hr or so ( a day time ) without plugging them in any other source of power source other then charging them every night like we do our smartphones and smart watches etc... I understand those who ride to the destinations in the middle of nowhere and may not have the access to the A/C to charge their electronic devices but for us the "Touring" type riders with hotel stays in the evenings this would be a nicer option rather than dealing with the cords and cables and special DC plugs etc. So my question still is; How long Zumo XT runs under its own battery power and how long it takes to charge the battery to 100% capacity?
I would like to see or explain how to install and use the external drive. My computer will not show the external drive nor can access it thru the Garmin directory (it just does not listed) And yes I did format the external drive as Garmin recommended and I also did not exceed the size of the external drive as specified by Garmin. Can you help explain how to install and use the external drive.
Love my 595lm from got it 2014. But the port is toast. Looking to get the XT. Then I’ll try go repair the 595. I don’t think Garmin has a repair program anymore but will look
This is such a helpful review, Cruiseman. I can’t quite wrap my head around the interaction between CarPlay and the Garmin. Are both running at the same time? Can Music be managed on either? Thank you!
CarPlay comes through the Goldwing Audio System, so any audio through CarPlay would be interrupted by navigation audio from the Garmin. You should have your headset paired to the Goldwing using the Mobile Phone pairing, and headset paired to the Garmin using the GPS pairing. Do not pair your phone to the GPS. You will have better luck playing music through CarPlay and turn OFF the music feature on your GPS.
Really like mine. With Cruiseman's very helpful BaseCamp tutorials, it is a very flexible travel tool. The only issue I have is when I try to use the XT as an audio hub (Sena 50S connected to XT and iPhone connected to XT), I get distorted audio when making or receiving a phone call through the XT. Music is always clear, and direction audio is usually clear except for the first few seconds sometime. I have not yet tried working this through with Garmin yet, as I am not a big fan of how support calls usually go these days, - but to be fair I do owe them the chance to see if this issue is resolvable.
That is a limitation with Sena unfortunately. Same thing happens with my 10R, and it also happens if I have intercom AND Bluetooth music playing. Will be getting a Cardo because of this... another 300 bucks :(
Excellent video - thanks Chris, your review helped me choose the XT over the BMW Nav 6 and the Tom Tom rider. Now to watch your Basecamp tutorials 😊, Alan, Southampton, UK
Best on the net! Your bulb replacement in the microwave was very timely, thanks. Any chance you can outline the steps to pair the XT, Sena and smartphone? The phone icon has disappeared and I'm struggling to get it back... I assume it's due to the pairing protocol.
My 2019 Goldwing has a 5V USB connection in the console in front of the seat (that I use today to power my iPhone) - my question is can I use that as the power source for the XT?
I watched your videos and then bought one. I put a loop route around my area in it. looked at the route and it was perfect. While riding on it, the GPS kept adding turns to other streets, turn off that dead ended. I had to keep ignoring turns. It added an hour to a one hour route for ETA. Not impressed. Don't know what to do. I put in other routes from Florida to NC. Will it do the same?
Good videos as always. Curious how accurate the GPS speed is in relation to the newer 2018 goldwing indicated speed. Pre 2018 GL was 5mph off. Actual speed on GPS was 60 the GL showed 55😬
I'm leery of Garmin. I'm on my second zūmo 396. The first was replaced, under warranty, because the screen had some bad pixels in it. Now, the screen of the replacement unit it so washed out that you can't see if in the sunlight. It's out of warranty so they won't fix it. They will give me a 20% discount on the XT. I just don't know if I want to spend the money on it.
The battery is difficult to remove, as it's very tightly stuck with glue. Also the connector is proprietary, and I've not found any replacements anywhere :( My Xt died after being left in a drawer - word of caution - keep it charged or you'll be chucking it in the bin.
Is there a way, via Garmin or aftermarket accessory to lock it to a mount so it might not always need to be removed from your motorcycle? Thanks for an informative video.
I am using a 665LM on my '19 Tour. It has XM, MP3 , weather and connects to the bike via the GW's AUX connector. All the audio runs through the bike's Audio system which of course outputs via my Bluetooth headset. So I have a some questions on the XT. Is the XT capable of connecting to the bike's AUX input connector? If not, does the XT have capability to Bluetooth to the bike's Audio system vice just to my headset? Just to confirm, the XT can be loaded with my own music via the MP3 function (using the USB connector to my PC) ?!?
i clicked "Avoidance" & "Unpaved Roads" but in the North Carolina mountains I can go down a paved road for many miles then suddenly the "Pavement Ends" and it turns to a gravel road. I with Garmin would have told me that the pavement ends.
I've had the XT for about 5 months and you showed me some features I didn't know were on it. Thanks!
Owned my XT for a month now and used it a few times. Very impressed, I tested the adventurous routing feature which I love. Impressed so far with the features, screen and wired it into my KTM 790 ADV R. The offroad trails that are not visible on my phone nav. apps. are all visible in the XT. For once I didn't get lost in the N. GA mountain trails! Very happy customer so far.
Great to hear!
Your comment EHWAZ just pushed me over edge to buy this unit. I ride the same trails in N Ga. thanks
Just saw your video on the XT, and subbed , this morning. How are you liking the new KLX 300? I'm thinking about getting one. My V Strom 1000xt Adventure is great on the road and ok on smooth dirt, but it's no dirt bike.😉
I just bought mine today, but contrary to your review, for 2021 the UK/Europe pack now comes with the car and motorcycle automotive mounts and suction pad and 12 volt car charging/Power cable. The Micro SD card FOR THOSE INTERESTED is fitted by opening the rear rubber tab, the silver cover tab that retains the SD card is hinged at the outer side of that compartment. Carefully lift upward with finger nail or something non abrasive, to reveal space for the SD Card and then close. I am surprised Garmin not including that or the case.
I just picked up the XT a few weeks ago on sale. Love it. Much better than the 595. I have a Bluetooth receiver on my wing so can still hear music and turn by turn directions through the bikes sound system. The XT comes with a ton of free space so no need to add an SD card right away. Note if you have problems with music you’ve added not showing up, you need to fiddle with the mp3 metadata from the computer side. In other words, right click on file, properties, details, then make sure artist, album artist, album, and song title are all filled in for each song. The XT doesn’t care if you have songs in named folders, only about the file metadata.
Took mine on a 7200 MI trip around the US this summer and it functioned well usually. The most irritating problem was with traffic when it would sometimes report the interstate as being closed when in fact they weren't. This happened three or four times and every time I checked with Google maps there was no indication there that the highways were closed so we continued on that route with no problems. The other thing that was irritating was when deviating from a route there was no quick and easy way to cause it to recalculate using the roads that we were on. Sometimes it would take 30 minutes before it would calculate a new route so that every time there was a place to turn around or a road to turn off onto it would direct you to do so. I'd really like to see a simple gesture made available or button somewhere that would allow a quick recalc while you're moving. And then a couple of times when near the end of a route it would suddenly go crazy and start routing way out of the way so that instead of one mile you would have 5 MI to get to your destination. At first I thought this might have been a satellite geometry problem but since I was backing up the zumo with my phone I was able to see that the phone was locked on to the satellites perfectly and had the original route on it. Although this may seem overly negative I really do like the advice and wouldn't consider traveling without it.
I loved your first review and I bought my Zumo XT solely based on that review. I have no regrets and really love the device. It has maintained its signal and continued to give directions even at times when my cell phone lost coverage such as on a road trip back from Arizona to Philadelphia. I fully agreed that the display could be more Google maps like and one other thing I would change would be after you get your results I wish it gave you an overview of what the entire route would look like such as Google does. Overall I really do like the device. Thank you for your awesome and comprehensive reviews.
Very nice, clear review. I just bought my XT here in Brazil. It will be my companion to a long trip to Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, on coming March 4th. Thanks a lot for the review. It surely deserves my subscription.
Very good review. All the highlights covered. The ability to see weather radar sells it for me. Really need that.
I'm betting you need cell service to see weather radar? I hope not because I need to see storms coming when I'm off-road and away from cell towers.
Ya just can't beat this guy on honest and true opinions👍
I just bought this GPS so I can mount it on my F 800GS, it's currently on sale for $399 on Garmin. Revzilla will also price match it (I bought if from them and they did). If anyone has been on the edge about buying it, I would say $100 off is a good reason to jump on it; I've been very impressed so far.
I switched to the XT 6 months ago from my BMW Nav 6 and it is an outstanding GPS. I mounted it in the Nav slot on my K1600 via an adapter I found. I’ve been on 2 multi day trips with it. 2 things: I pair my Sena 20S, iPhone and the XT and they have worked flawlessly - the first time I was able to achieve this. For Route planning I use MRA Routeplanner, which saves in .gpx format to load into my XT. thanks for the review!
Have owned an XT for about a year now. It is primarily used for adventure riding. My previous Zumo 550 was practically worthless off highway because even with back country routes up and running it was impossible to see the screen in the daylight. That is important when in the middle of nowhere you need to see if you are on course. Couple of months ago I purchased the Garmin Inreach emergency transponder and it links up with the XT automatically. Positioning the Inreach on your person is important, for example, because if you break a collar bone and the Inreach is on the side of the break it might be impossible to get to it to send an SOS. The XT provides another means of sending the SOS signal if it survived the crash giving you redundancy to alert people you need help. The Zumo XT is a game changer.
Thanks for the great information. Plus, I am thrilled to see another "older guy" that rides. I am 68, and my 89 year-old mother thinks I am too old to be riding a motorcycle. Nevermind that I have been riding since I was 10!
I love mine. Music, hands free, traffic, weather, tracking, phone, scenic routes, etc.... I went through 9 states on a western states trip and stayed off all major freeways. Super bright!
Only thing that sucks is getting a second mount and wiring for second bike. There's no complete kit, and getting the power cables took 3 months to get in stock!
I went from a Zumo 550 with outdated maps to this. So far it has been fantastic, although I haven't done a lot with base camp yet. I primarily use my GPS for live navigation and not much for routing to destinations using base camp routes.
This model is kinda nice for letting you know upcoming school zones, rail road crossings and reduced speeds ahead. In most locations it shows posted speed limits on the maps.
The screen is the biggest plus. It is TFT and high definition. The field expands out 5.5 inches and is nice size for live navigation.
One thing I was not aware of and it doesn't mention this on the web site is that unless you have blue tooth head set connected all of the phone features are disabled. Please correct me if I am wrong.
I wanted to be able to get text messages and use the garmin drive ap through my phone but cannot unless I invest in a blue tooth head set.
I’ve been using my new Garmin Zumo XT for about 6 months now and I think it’s the best GPS I’ve ever used.
I have had my ZUMO XT for a couple years now. I Love it.. it does everything I need it to. Only thing that when wrong with it was the Charging Port. The bottom connection became loose, and the GPS, started acting crazy. So I just ordered TWO extra power cords. Because I Love this GPS. The power cord is the only weak link in the system. You have to be extra careful with third little power connecters.
And the Blue cycle icon is a bonus. My 2017 Kawasaki Concours 14 is Blue. 😎👍👍🇺🇸
Can you tell me more about the power to the unit? Can I use the USB plug in the back and keep it powered to my snowmobile USB power outlet? Is the battery on the back necessary to install? Thanks
Based on your positive review I'm purchasing the Zumo XT. Took a long ride on the Smokey Mountains back roads over the weekend and the Honda GPS was very frustrating to use. I like that it also show telephone calls. Thanks for the review.
One of the most helpful reviews of the GARMIN ZUMO XT. Thank you very much! 👍🏻😊
Thanks for that, I am considering upgrading from my Zumo 660 and this sure will fit the bill.
Thanks again! !! !!!
Great review.
Returning to riding after 3 decades away, just got a Ducati DesertX and got this optional GPS installed before delivery. Really nice features.
Carrollton is around two minutes away from where I live. 👍
I want to thank you for your videos on the Zumo XT and the Sena 50s. I have purchased both of these products and love them.
Much appreciated!
Love the weather radar overlay. I purchased this unit based on your review last year.
Garmin smartphone link on your phone is indispensable when paired with any Garmin gps. Easily search for and send locations from pretty much any app or website to your gps. Works an absolute treat
Very thorough review, thanks for sharing. I appreciate reviews after some real time was spent using a product, wish more folks would do that.
I also have a Zumo, the 395 LM. Has curvy roads route option. Excellent. Good video.
Very good information Chris! I think this is one of your best videos! Thanks!
An annoyance I have experienced occurs when running a route in reverse. If a planned route uses minor roads and intended detours, the reverse route the XT brings up uses the most direct option. Route planning is cumbersome, even in Basecamp, owing to the need to zoom in to see minor roads, then zoom out for an overall view. I have a fast PC with good graphics card and in spite of that zooming in and out is slow. As a result I tend to lose track of where I am in planning a route.
However the XT enables my Schuberth helmet Bluetooth device to communicate with my phone (via the XT). Phone calls were not possible until I got the Zumo and it even brings up text messages while riding which is cool.
just would like let you know how much you have influenced me positivety and i just relly enjoy your videos i also purchased the zumo xt and im really enjoying it thanks to you cruisman
In the process of deciding what type of GPS to buy - this was a great review and comparison plus super educational about the mapping apps. Just from my experience with a PC, the older micro USB connectors that they have put on the XT are a lot more robust than USB-C connectors - the latter bend and come loose over time. I'm glad they went with the older connectors. Update - I bought one. Its very good and there is a little rubber thingy that covers the contacts but its not as robust as the one covering the contacts on the 595LM
Been using the XT for about 5 months, the screen is very bright but very reflective. Sometimes I only see the reflections of my jacket or?? BUT I found an anti-glare screen made to the size of the XT and it stopped the reflections. Still has the touch screen and brightness. Not sure I can give mfg name, but web search of XT anti glare screen protector and it starts with an NuS. Good review, lots of things to learn. Thanks
Shockingly good video review. Much appreciated from this new subscriber
I am riding a Honda VF800x now for 75000 km. Had a Zumo 390 before which died this year, but brought me from Germany through Ireland planed on Basecamp last year without any problems. Knowing basecamp (not that easy) the XT was the apparent choice. I love the screen. Even in the brightest sunshine with sunvisor easy to read. The only thing that could be improved is the round trip option - you cannot set a distance and a target or direction at the same tame - routing is smart enough if you select a a roundtrip and just want to go the other way round. It is however not possible to make a roundtrip + a target + a defined number of km/mi. This would be really nice to have - say I want to ride a roundtrip - I want to stop there - and it should be xxx km/mi. Ride safe! Thomas
I upgraded from the 396 to the XT. While the 396 is a great GPS, the XT is so much better. It has a better response time. Putting in an address, while not the most ideal on the XT, is still better than it is on the 396. The only thing I like better on the 396 is the ability to connect with Garmin's Smartphone Link app, which allowed me to send a link to my wife so she could know where I was. Other than that feature, the XT is hands down a better GPS.
Awesome review! You cover all the salient points so well - thank you!! I see a new Garmin coming my way! Warm greetings from South Africa!
I really love mine.
Excellent video!!!! Very thorough.. I was planning on purchasing this in the next few weeks.
great video, thanks for the review. I recognize some of those streets on your Garmin screen, we must live close to one another ;)
The perfect review for what I needed. Awesome, thank you for sharing sir 🙏
I too have had one for a Year. Don't regret investing my money on it.
Great review! Thank you for helping make my decision. This is exactly what I need.
I tried to import the Arizona BDR tracks, but was unable to do so. I didn't have an installed micro SD card, in the ZUMO so I've ordered one hoping that will cure the problem.
I'm an older guy and GARMIN ticks me off in 1)not supplying a written (paper) manual, and 2) not having humans available to call regarding product use! This is also true of marine and aviation electronic products.
Nice review. I have enjoyed my ZUMO on my KTM.
Thanks for the great overview. I just ordered one that JUST went on sale $100 off.
Hope you enjoy it!
Thanks Cruiseman. I'm coming off a Nuvi 3597 and I just got a XT for my upcoming coast 2 coast trip. I did have some trouble connecting to Basecamp. Turns out it was a Demo Cyclops POI included in the XT that was causing basecamp to crash. Once I deleted it...all OK.
I considered just using my phone - my old Zumo 550 was a good navigator, but nothing else on it was useable. If I put in an SD card - the music player would take well over 30 minutes to display even the first song. Well, the phone connection worked okay. It's now 12 years old and has seen better days (lots of UV deterioration). I've got a Garmin in the car that I use rather than the onboard nav - nobody does GPS as well as Garmin. This review was just one more nail in the coffin for the idea of mounting my phone on the bike (never really liked the idea). So I just ordered an XT (hoping the music player is better - although using my phone for that would be fine - it can do that from inside the tank bag.
You sold me. I was looking at it for riding the NMBDR this coming June. I was going to use my phone but I heard that the vibration on a motorcycle can destroy your camera ($1100 iPhone vs $500 GPS). I hated to spend that kind of money on a one-time use GPS because I don't think I'll ever have use for one normally because there's no place I go in NM that I need a map for. This looks like a great GPS but I wish I had a real good use for it to justify the cost. I'm not sure I'd even need it on the BDR as I have the Butler map for it and I know most of NM pretty well. But it sure has enticed me.
The cell phone also will encounter more dead zones when you are out of cell range.
I really enjoy your reviews....clear, concise and pertinent. Nice Job. I have the 396 and absolutely hate the interface. Like you said, I wish it were more waze-like. also the touch screen response is abysmal. Would you say the XT is a big improvement over that model?
One downside to this Zumo compared with past models, it doesn't have a headphone jack / aux output. So on my older Harley touring bike that doesn't have bluetooth, but does have an aux input, I can no longer route the audio through my bike's audio system. There are workarounds for this, such as using a bluetooth receiver with aux output.
Wouldn’t be without my XT . It’s not perfect and I would definitely recommend it . I just wish garmin would make a secure lockable cradle as an option, although it is easy to take off and pop in jacket . Base camp sucks , not intuitive at all so I use a third party route planner , Scenic on my phone and export to the XT way better than basecamp . I can plan a route using Scenic at breakfast over coffee without a laptop etc and within a few minutes the route is exported to the XT . Like all these things you’ve got to check the route before hitting “go” as it may do something bizarre. 😂
I bought the 595LM after seeing your review on it, and haven't found the need or money to replace it. If I had to buy another GPS, the XT sounds like a good one to get.
I’ve always loved Garmin products and own many. I just purchased a 2021 Goldwing DCT Tour. I haven’t had time to familiarize myself with the factory GPS. Is the Goldwing GPS so crappy that it would behoove one to purchase an aftermarket one ?
Very good GPS !!! It reminds me the GPS I had on my K1600 Grand America. It is basically the same but with much better looking display and clarity. I have to say, for 500.00, I think I am pretty much happy with the built in GPS from Honda. And, if I want to be very picky with the route, I switch to Waze or Google. I never had one issue with routing to anywhere. Yes, Honda's could be a bit lazy and crazy entering info for routing, I can live with that.
Great review here. I learned a lot. I would really like to go down the tablet Android route BUT this GPS is making me think very seriously about whether that would be the best bet. Well done and thanks. Phil.
Thanks , great video, I learnt a lot from it, only just bought my XT , had a BMW’ nav 6 on my gsa , that was not good, and bought a WunderlinQ to use my iPhone, wasn’t bad but it wasn’t very safe either it dropped off at one point. So hence the XT , I have it wired in now but just waiting for the bike mount to arrive from the USA , but your video has help me to understand some of the workings. I do think that Garmin should do an instruction booklet in the pack. It’s ok to have it on line but but not everyone has a printer or even a computer. Thanks again. Graham.
Great video as always. I am interested to know why you use a standalone GPS unit rather than an app on your phone via Apple CarPlay?
Thank you for your review. I just ordered one this morning. I have just been using my cell for navigation but my wife and I were in the mountains and google failed to find a route back to our hotel on numerous occasions. I've never had Google maps fail to find a route before. Besides, I think it's time to keep my phone in my pocket.... not on the bike.
fantastic video... found it really helpful... thinking this may well be the GPS for my new Tenere... all the best...
I have had one for several thousand miles (mostly offroad), a few things I have learned, the charging base will give problems, loading tracks is a major pain in the _____, buy a card and make sure you format it to your XT to load your tracks on, if you load them to the XT memory, they will give you trouble , it will not work trying t use the USB port to charge while riding...............
Thank you for a great review. How does this model compares with the new Zumo XT2 , while the latter have a lot of reported issues. Ride safe!
Great video Cruisman, thanks for this. Blowing taps for my Zumo550.....she's just about done. I subscribed w/notification and will return for the Garmin Way Points.
Have you installed any matt screen protectors on yours or know anyone who has? That will cut the glare and keep the fingerprints down. You can get one for a smaller tablet and cut-to-fit. I did that for my Zumo550 and it worked well.
This is the best motorcycle GPS by far.
i own a 550 and the zumo xt. I updated the maps on both and still prefer the 550 over the xt.
Nice tip about being able to import Basecamp routes.
Great review Cruiseman…watching this more or less solidified the deal for me to purchase this product. I currently ride a 2018 Honda Goldwing DCT Tour but have a couple of questions…
-How does the Zumo XT Bluetooth function work in conjunction with the various things associated with Apple CarPlay like music, phone calls, etc as well as the CB usage
-Did you choose to hard wire the unit to the bike or do you use the battery pack? And was it a difficult process?
Thanks in advance
Excellent review. How do you access the traffic feature on the map for the motorcycle as well as the car mount? It looks like Garmin lists a GTM 60 HD Digital Traffic Receiver cable which I believe is for the car mount. Do you use this cable with the car mount? What about the MC mount?
only negatives are it's a bit slow to connect to Garmin Express/Basecamp., and Trip Planner can be a bit of a faff
Great video my friend as always.. Thank you
For a unit designed to be used out in the open with the elements, there does not appear to be a solution for rain sensitivity or a way to lock the screen?
Großartiges Video Thank you for your excellence Clear English
My motorcycle Garmin Zumo XT wireless GPS after I update for the first time , what ever address I input or going to saved address says : "Cannot calculate the route" please HELP - How can I fix that?Thanks
The car mount is not a powered mount. One must plug a USB cord in to the Zumo for the car mount. Would have prefered a powered mount.
I don't know if I missed it but did you mention how long Zumo XT can be used on the road by its internal battery alone as the power source. I wish in today's tech world they figure it out these devices can work on their batteries unto 12 hr or so ( a day time ) without plugging them in any other source of power source other then charging them every night like we do our smartphones and smart watches etc... I understand those who ride to the destinations in the middle of nowhere and may not have the access to the A/C to charge their electronic devices but for us the "Touring" type riders with hotel stays in the evenings this would be a nicer option rather than dealing with the cords and cables and special DC plugs etc.
So my question still is; How long Zumo XT runs under its own battery power and how long it takes to charge the battery to 100% capacity?
I would like to see or explain how to install and use the external drive. My computer will not show the external drive nor can access it thru the Garmin directory (it just does not listed) And yes I did format the external drive as Garmin recommended and I also did not exceed the size of the external drive as specified by Garmin. Can you help explain how to install and use the external drive.
Got mine today. I’m already interested in putting a sun visor on it. Do you have any recommendations for a good sunvisor?
Love my 595lm from got it 2014. But the port is toast. Looking to get the XT. Then I’ll try go repair the 595. I don’t think Garmin has a repair program anymore but will look
This is such a helpful review, Cruiseman. I can’t quite wrap my head around the interaction between CarPlay and the Garmin. Are both running at the same time? Can Music be managed on either? Thank you!
CarPlay comes through the Goldwing Audio System, so any audio through CarPlay would be interrupted by navigation audio from the Garmin. You should have your headset paired to the Goldwing using the Mobile Phone pairing, and headset paired to the Garmin using the GPS pairing. Do not pair your phone to the GPS. You will have better luck playing music through CarPlay and turn OFF the music feature on your GPS.
Basecamp needs to upgrade from the 1990s.
Really like mine. With Cruiseman's very helpful BaseCamp tutorials, it is a very flexible travel tool. The only issue I have is when I try to use the XT as an audio hub (Sena 50S connected to XT and iPhone connected to XT), I get distorted audio when making or receiving a phone call through the XT. Music is always clear, and direction audio is usually clear except for the first few seconds sometime. I have not yet tried working this through with Garmin yet, as I am not a big fan of how support calls usually go these days, - but to be fair I do owe them the chance to see if this issue is resolvable.
That is a limitation with Sena unfortunately. Same thing happens with my 10R, and it also happens if I have intercom AND Bluetooth music playing. Will be getting a Cardo because of this... another 300 bucks :(
@@sofloemir Thanks for the feedback Emir. Did you go through the support channels to get that figured out?
Excellent video - thanks Chris, your review helped me choose the XT over the BMW Nav 6 and the Tom Tom rider. Now to watch your Basecamp tutorials 😊,
Alan,
Southampton, UK
Enjoy!
Could you link your tutorial please Chris? Thanks in advance 😊
@@BiGVern1958 ruclips.net/p/PL7272qWysA9zwqUS_D2kPQTXoR-rxokZQ
Best on the net! Your bulb replacement in the microwave was very timely, thanks. Any chance you can outline the steps to pair the XT, Sena and smartphone? The phone icon has disappeared and I'm struggling to get it back... I assume it's due to the pairing protocol.
My 2019 Goldwing has a 5V USB connection in the console in front of the seat (that I use today to power my iPhone) - my question is can I use that as the power source for the XT?
I watched your videos and then bought one. I put a loop route around my area in it. looked at the route and it was perfect. While riding on it, the GPS kept adding turns to other streets, turn off that dead ended. I had to keep ignoring turns. It added an hour to a one hour route for ETA. Not impressed. Don't know what to do. I put in other routes from Florida to NC. Will it do the same?
Great review thanks for making it 💪👍
Great review. Very informative. Is installation difficult? I have a fjr 1300 and 1200 sportster custom. Is vibration an for the Garmin? Thank you. KB
@@kevinbjorlie8904 installation difficulty is 3 out of 10 (10 being hardest). Vibration not an issue.
Good videos as always. Curious how accurate the GPS speed is in relation to the newer 2018 goldwing indicated speed. Pre 2018 GL was 5mph off. Actual speed on GPS was 60 the GL showed 55😬
On my 2018 Goldwing, it is dead on accurate.
I'm leery of Garmin. I'm on my second zūmo 396. The first was replaced, under warranty, because the screen had some bad pixels in it. Now, the screen of the replacement unit it so washed out that you can't see if in the sunlight. It's out of warranty so they won't fix it. They will give me a 20% discount on the XT. I just don't know if I want to spend the money on it.
Great in-depth view thank you
Can I transfer the "current" file from another Garmin (Drivesmart) to this unit so transfer addresses/points? Thanks
I’m looking at getting a XT for my AT. I was wondering how well it works with car play connected to the bike at the same time?
Thanks for the great review.
Hello! Great 👍🏽! Dud you find out about the battery? How to replace or if needed please? Just curious 🤨
The battery is difficult to remove, as it's very tightly stuck with glue. Also the connector is proprietary, and I've not found any replacements anywhere :( My Xt died after being left in a drawer - word of caution - keep it charged or you'll be chucking it in the bin.
Great review! But it is one year old now. Do you have any reason to think a Garmin replacement is in the offing?
I have not heard any rumors.
Is there a way, via Garmin or aftermarket accessory to lock it to a mount so it might not always need to be removed from your motorcycle? Thanks for an informative video.
Hi, it depends on your bike. Wunderlich, Touratech and others offer mounting kits for the BMW GS nav prep so you can still use the BMW mount.
A video coming soon where one of my viewers created such a lock.
Does Garmin make accessories so I can also use this on my car?
The device is already 3 years old, time for an upgrade?
I am using a 665LM on my '19 Tour. It has XM, MP3 , weather and connects to the bike via the GW's AUX connector. All the audio runs through the bike's Audio system which of course outputs via my Bluetooth headset. So I have a some questions on the XT. Is the XT capable of connecting to the bike's AUX input connector? If not, does the XT have capability to Bluetooth to the bike's Audio system vice just to my headset? Just to confirm, the XT can be loaded with my own music via the MP3 function (using the USB connector to my PC) ?!?
Do you provide an installation video for the XT
Very useful review. Thanks.
Excellent review!
i clicked "Avoidance" & "Unpaved Roads" but in the North Carolina mountains I can go down a paved road for many miles then suddenly the "Pavement Ends" and it turns to a gravel road.
I with Garmin would have told me that the pavement ends.
Wish Garmin would include tire pressure monitoring like the 595lm. My F6b doesn’t have that from Honda.
I think Garmin was trying to keep the price down.